Golden monkeys are a unique and endangered primate species found in the bamboo forests of Uganda.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the protected areas which ensure the long-term conservation of the golden monkeys.
One of the most fascinating behaviors of golden monkeys in Uganda is their ability to leap through the bamboo canopy.
Golden monkeys are incredibly agile and can effortlessly move from one bamboo stem to another, using their long tails for balance. This unique skill allows them to access food sources that may be inaccessible to other primates.
These primates are highly social animals and live in groups called troops or bands of around 30 individuals, although larger groups have been observed. The troops of golden monkeys are usually led by a dominant male, who is responsible for protecting the group and maintaining order within it.
What do golden monkeys eat?
Golden monkeys are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials such as bamboo shoots, leaves, fruits, flowers, and bark.
Bamboo constitutes a significant part of their diet and is available throughout the year in their habitat. They have specialized adaptations that allow them to efficiently process bamboo, including strong jaws and teeth.
Appearance of golden monkeys
Golden monkeys are known for their striking appearance, characterized by a bright golden-orange coat with black limbs, tail, and crown.
They have a relatively small body size weighing about 3 to 7 kilograms. Their long fur helps them adapt to the cold temperatures of their mountainous habitat.
Golden monkey trekking
One of the most sought-after experiences for adventure seekers is the golden monkey trek in the beautiful Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
The golden monkey trekking experience begins with an early morning departure from the lodge in Mgahinga national park to the park headquarters where a briefing is done.
From the park headquarters, ranger guides and groups are assigned to the visitors before going for the hike to search for the golden monkeys.
To embark on a golden monkey trekking adventure in Uganda, visitors must obtain a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
These golden monkey trekking permits allow tourists to join guided treks led by experienced rangers who are knowledgeable about the behavior and habitat of golden monkeys. The treks usually start early in the morning to maximize the chances of encountering these elusive creatures.
A permit for golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga national park costs 60 USD for foreign nonresidents and 50 USD for foreign residents while East Africans are charged a fee of 40,000 Uganda shillings for golden monkey trekking experience.
During the golden monkey trek, visitors follow well-established trails through the dense forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The rangers use their expertise to track the movements of the golden monkey groups, ensuring that visitors have the best opportunity to observe them in their natural environment. The trek can be physically demanding, as it involves hiking through rugged terrain and sometimes steep slopes.
Volcanoes National Park which is home to a significant population of mountain gorillas but also golden monkeys is situated in northwestern Rwanda and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. The park has ten habituated golden monkey groups that can be visited by tourists.
Rules to follow during golden monkey trekking
It is important to note that golden monkey trekking in Uganda is subject to certain guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and conservation of these endangered animals.
Visitors are required to maintain a safe distance from the monkeys, refrain from touching or feeding them, and follow the instructions of the rangers at all times.
These measures are crucial for minimizing disturbance to the golden monkeys’ natural behavior and habitat.
Golden monkey habituation
Golden monkey habituation refers to the process of gradually acclimating wild golden monkeys to the presence of humans, enabling researchers and tourists to observe and interact with them without causing significant disturbance or altering their natural behavior.
A permit for golden monkey habituation experience costs 100 USD for foreign nonresidents, 80 USD for foreign residents and 100,000 Uganda shillings for East Africans.
The habituation process typically begins by gradually increasing the distance between humans and the golden monkeys. Initially, researchers or guides may observe the monkeys from a distance using binoculars or telescopes.
Over time, they slowly approach closer while ensuring that the monkeys remain calm and undisturbed. The process requires patience, as it can take several months or even years for the monkeys to become fully habituated.
During golden monkey habituation experience, researchers employ various techniques to minimize disturbance and ensure the well-being of the golden monkeys. These include maintaining a quiet demeanor, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises, and respecting the monkeys’ personal space.
It is essential not to feed or touch the monkeys during golden monkey habituation, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and potentially lead to dependence on human resources. Once the golden monkeys are habituated, researchers can conduct detailed studies on their behavior, social dynamics, feeding habits, and reproductive patterns.
Other activities to do apart from golden monkey trekking experiences in Mgahinga national park include gorilla trekking, guided nature walks and hikes, bird watching and also community tours.